Western Isles MP - working the issues

Published:10:47Monday 11 July 2016

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A tide of enormous change has swept over politics since my last column in May.

Westminster is in turmoil following the EU referendum which has led to the resignation of the Prime Minister leading to a fierce and divisive leadership race; while the Labour Party continue in disarray over the future direction of the party.

Add in the devastating Chilcot report last week and this summer will surely go down in history as a low point in the UK’s political history.

The SNP and the Scottish Government on the other hand are an example of calm amongst the chaos with a clear direction and demonstration of leadership in crisis.

Na h-Eileanan an Iar and the rest of Scotland voted to remain a member of the EU and ensuring that position is now a goal for First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.

In striving forward, she has not ruled out a second independence referendum.

For all the EU nationals living here in the islands, I have said it before and will say it again, you are welcome, you are valued, you are part of our community.

The summer is upon us and I am delighted that the islands are busy as usual with visitors and those returning home to see family.

This weekend Stornoway will be full of the hustle and bustle of HebCelt, a special atmosphere and great line up of main and fringe events.

For those who are unable to access broadband speeds of at least 2Mps, you may eligible for subsidised Satellite Broadband and I am currently looking into this further for those lacking options to get connected.

I’ve also asked mobile operators to consider basing staff in the islands to ensure we have a robust service and I will liaise with operators regarding their upgrade services plans for the islands.